Is biofreeze the same as Voltaren?

Biofreeze contains menthol, and like other menthol-containing products, it alleviates pain via counter-irritation, specifically cooling the surface of the skin. Voltaren instead treats pain by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins.

What is comparable to Voltaren?

Voltaren gel's active ingredient is diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It helps lower inflammation (swelling) around the area where you apply it. Aspercreme and Volteran gel are both available as brand-name medications. But you can also find them as lower-cost generics.

Why was Voltaren taken off the market?

A slew of studies, though, show diclofenac — sold under the brand names Voltaren, Cambia, Cataflam and Zipsor — is just as likely to cause a heart attack as the discredited painkiller Vioxx (rofecoxib), which was pulled from the U.S. market in 2004.

Is there an alternative to Voltaren gel?

2) Pennsaid solution (diclofenac sodium 1.5%) is another topical treatment similar to Voltaren gel (also made by Endo) that is approved for the treatment of knee arthritis symptoms. The recommended dose is 40 drops per knee, four times a day.

Is biofreeze an anti-inflammatory?

Biofreeze therapy works similarly to ice in reducing inflammation and improving circulation, but offers more powerful, comfortable, convenient, and long-lasting pain relief.

Voltaren vs. Biofreeze: What's the Difference? | Voltaren

When should you not use Biofreeze?

Do not use on open wounds, broken skin, or irritated skin. Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth. Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Can you use Biofreeze every day?

If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it as directed. This medication is for use on the skin only. Apply to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times a day. If you are using the cream, gel, or liquid, rub in gently and thoroughly.

What is the generic gel for Voltaren?

Generic Name: diclofenac sodium

This medication is used to relieve joint pain from arthritis. Diclofenac belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

What are the dangers of Voltaren gel?

Why can you not use Voltaren?

For example, you should not use Voltaren: If you have any heart issues or are at risk for adverse events such as heart attack and stroke. If you have allergies to this drug or other pain or fever aids such as aspirin. Before or after heart surgery4.

Why can't you use Voltaren gel on your back?

It reduces inflammation and pain. Voltaren gel is approved for use on arm and leg joints only. It has not been studied for use in the hips or spine. You should not use Voltaren gel to treat muscle pain in other areas of the body, such as the lower back.

Does Voltaren gel get into the bloodstream?

As a topical gel, a smaller amount of diclofenac from Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel reaches the bloodstream compared with the oral form of diclofenac. In a clinical study, the systemic exposure with Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel was 6%, or 94% less than the systemic exposure with the oral NSAID diclofenac.

Can you use Voltaren gel indefinitely?

Therefore, Voltaren can be used as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent not only in short-term therapy but also in the long-term treatment of chronic diseases.

Does Voltaren reduce inflammation or just pain?

It works by pooling diclofenac on the surface of the skin, the medicine then penetrates the underlying tissues, targeting the inflamed tissues (e.g. around the joint to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and speed healing) to relieve pain, decrease swelling and support the healing process.

When was Voltaren taken off the market?

Voltaren Gel (diclofenac sodium) is a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication indicated for the temporary relief of joint pain due to osteoarthritis. On February 14, 2020 the FDA changed the status of Voltaren Gel 1% from prescription to non-prescription through a process called Rx-to-OTC switch.

Are there two types of Voltaren?

Voltaren is available in two different forms: gel and spray.

Is Voltaren gel hard on the liver?

3) Diclofenac (Voltaren, Cambia)

Any NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) can cause liver injury, although it's very rare. This class of medications includes popular drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen. But when it comes to liver injury, diclofenac is the NSAID with the highest risk.

Is Voltaren gel hard on the kidneys?

A gel form of the prescription NSAID diclofenac (Voltaren Gel) is one option. Only a very small amount of the drug gets into the bloodstream, so it may be safe for your kidneys. However, topicals may not work well for hip pain, because the joint is too deep for the medication to penetrate.

Can Voltaren gel raise blood pressure?

NSAIDs, including Voltaren Gel, can lead to high blood pressure or worsening of high blood pressure, which may add to the increased risk of heart attack and stroke. There is a potential for elevation in liver function tests during treatment with diclofenac containing products.

What is off brand of Voltaren Gel?

Diclofenac Pain Relieving Gel - Voltaren Generic (with Photos & Prices, Reviews)

Is biofreeze good for arthritis?

Biofreeze Menthol Pain Relieving Gel is well-suited for application on small and large muscle areas. Fast acting and long lasting, cooling menthol formula delivers penetrating pain relief for sore muscles, simple backaches, joint pain, bruises, and arthritis.

What strength is over the counter Voltaren Gel?

The new OTC version of Voltaren gel will contain 1% of the active ingredient, diclofenac, which is the same strength that previously required a prescription.

What happens if you use Biofreeze too much?

What happens if I overdose? An overdose of menthol is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

Why does Biofreeze work so well?

BioFreeze Stimulates the Cold Receptors

When the patient applies BioFreeze to the skin, the menthol joins with the receptors of the skin that are sensitive to temperature. The ingredient stimulates the receptors and alters the pain signals that are present in the body's pain-relieving system.

Can I leave Biofreeze on overnight?

For minor aches and pains, this works great! Stays on overnight and relieves pain.